Understanding Shaken and Vehicle Inspection Costs in Japan

What is a Shaken?

Shaken (vehicle inspection) is a periodic inspection conducted under Japanese law to ensure vehicle safety and environmental standards. For new cars, the first inspection is after three years, and subsequent inspections are every two years. For commercial vehicles, inspections are required annually. The purpose of Shaken is to verify that the vehicle’s basic functions and components are working correctly to maintain safe driving conditions.

1. Basic Costs of Shaken

When undergoing Shaken, the following costs are incurred:

Legal Fees

• Vehicle Weight Tax: Based on the vehicle’s weight.
• Mandatory Liability Insurance (Jibaiseki Hoken): Covers personal liability in accidents.
• Inspection Fee: The fee for conducting the inspection.

Maintenance Costs

• Basic Maintenance Cost: For the inspection and maintenance of the vehicle.
• Additional Maintenance Costs: For repairs or issues found during the inspection.

2. Vehicle Weight Tax

The vehicle weight tax varies based on the vehicle’s weight and age.

Light Vehicles

• Weight Tax: Light vehicles are taxed at a fixed rate.
• Tax Reduction: Eco-friendly vehicles may be eligible for tax reductions or exemptions.

Standard Vehicles

• Weight Tax: Taxed per 0.5 tons of the vehicle’s weight.
• Age-Based Difference: Older vehicles (over 13 years old) incur higher taxes (“heavy tax”).

3. Automobile Tax (Light Vehicle Tax)

Automobile tax is levied annually based on engine displacement. Unpaid taxes prevent you from undergoing Shaken.

Submission of Tax Certificate

• Necessity: Required during Shaken.
• Reissue: Obtainable from the local tax office if lost.

Automobile Tax Amount

The amount is based on the vehicle’s engine displacement. For example:

• Up to 1L: 29,500 yen
• 1L to 1.5L: 34,500 yen
• 1.5L to 2.0L: 39,500 yen
• 2.0L to 2.5L: 45,000 yen
• 2.5L to 3.0L: 51,000 yen
• 3.0L to 3.5L: 58,000 yen
• 3.5L to 4.0L: 66,500 yen
• 4.0L to 4.5L: 76,500 yen
• 4.5L to 6.0L: 88,000 yen
• Over 6.0L: 111,000 yen
• Light Vehicles: 10,800 yen

4. Eco-Car Tax Reduction

Eco-car tax reduction applies to environmentally friendly vehicles.

Eligible Vehicles

• Low Emission Vehicles: Vehicles with low CO2 emissions.
• Fuel-Efficient Vehicles: Vehicles with good fuel efficiency and low environmental impact.

Tax Reduction Content

• Vehicle Weight Tax: Reduced or exempted at the time of purchase.
• Vehicle Acquisition Tax: Also eligible for reduction at the time of purchase.

5. Timing of Shaken and Tips to Reduce Costs

Shaken is required three years after the new car registration and every two years thereafter. For commercial vehicles, it is annual.

Cost Reduction Tips

• Obtain Multiple Quotes: Prices vary between repair shops and dealers.
• Early Maintenance: Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs.
• Switch to an Eco-Car: Utilize eco-car tax reductions for long-term savings.

Regular Maintenance

• Oil Changes: Regular engine oil changes extend the life of your car.
• Tire Inspection: Check tire wear and air pressure.
• Brake Inspection: Regularly check brakes for safe driving.

Types of Shaken

There are three types of Shaken:

1. User Shaken

• Content: The owner takes the car to the transport bureau for inspection.
• Merit: Lower cost.
• Demerit: Complex procedures and requires technical knowledge.

2. Dealer Shaken

• Content: Conducted at the dealer where the car was purchased.
• Merit: High reliability and manufacturer warranty.
• Demerit: Higher cost.

3. Private Repair Shop Shaken

• Content: Conducted at private repair shops.
• Merit: Often cheaper than dealer Shaken.
• Demerit: Reliability and service quality vary by shop.

Conclusion

Shaken involves various costs, but expenses can be managed through regular maintenance and utilizing eco-car tax reductions. Understanding the breakdown of costs and taking appropriate measures can prevent unnecessary spending. Utilizing eco-car tax reductions not only reduces Shaken costs but also lowers daily running costs.

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